Alison Rodericks

Autumn 2025 update: Life in Sydney is fun and fabulous, but it can also be expensive. The good news is you can dine out affordably if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time your friends suggest a catch-up. As for me, I’ll be hitting up old-school Italian spot Bill & Toni's, Emma’s Snack Bar (found in my new ’hood, Enmore), and for banging tacos, I’m heading to Mami’s in Bondi. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

Autumn 2025 update: Not sure where the start of the year went? Same. Embrace the change in season with brekkie and a hot coffee at one of our fave Sydney cafés. My current picks include a delightful new spot from the Ursula’s Paddington team called Cafe Cressida, Manly’s go-to Noon, and the Euro-style Ken's Continental in Potts Point. Sydneysiders are café people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

Believe it or not, another school holiday is just about to begin in NSW. And if the thought of keeping the kiddos entertained for the next two weeks sends you into a spiral, we have you covered –  with the ultimate round-up of activities and experiences happening in Sydney for kids and families this Easter.  There’s something here for the explorers, the budding scientists, the mini-athletes, the musical prodigies and just about everyone in between. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere affordable to eat out with the kids? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Or visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Somehow, it’s already autumn. The good news is there are plenty of exciting new openings to add to your hit list. My current favourites include Newtown’s charming new fisherman’s den, Mister Grotto; a fire-powered Mediterranean diner from the Bar Copains team called Bessie’s; and Marrickville’s new Greek grill house that’s 100 per cent worth the hype, Olympic Meats. Oh, and the five-star Neptune's Grotto. Below, you’ll find Sydney’s best new restaurants. Hungry? I am too. Let’s dig in. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

Whether you want thick, creamy, red curries; soft, charry naan breads; oily, hot pickles; a fiery vindaloo; or a cooling lassi, there's an Indian restaurant primed to sort your spice cravings in Sydney. Time Out Sydney's writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure – who has spent weeks travelling from the palm-fringed beaches in Goa to the lush mountains in Darjeeling – have rounded up the best Indian restaurants in the city. We've got tropical flavours from the south and the earthy heat from northern fare, and, if you really want to go on a subcontinental adventure, head to Sydney's own little India in Harris Park. Want more food adventures? Check out our guide to the best Sydney restaurants. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. On a budget? Here are the best cheap eats in Sydney.

It's ticking over to a shameful hour, and you've smoke-bombed from the party in search of sustenance. Is it fried chicken you're after, that fail-safe absorbent of sin and too many cocktails? Or maybe you've been working late, and you're looking to redeem a day of fluorescent-lit corporate drudgery with the perfect plate of spicy noodles? Time Out's Sydney's writers, including Food & Drink Editor (and fellow night owl) Avril Treasure, spend a lot of time out on the town at night – it's our job. So we know where to nab a decent late-night feed (when Macca's isn't it). We've rounded up the best spots where you'll find what you're craving, way up late. Most of the places on this list are open until around midnight or beyond (especially Thursdays to Saturdays). Still feeling snackish? Take yourself out to peruse our list of the very best cheap eats you can get in Sydney. RECOMMENDED: These are the best pizza restaurants in Sydney right now

No two ways about it, Sydney's wine bar scene is flourishing. Full to the brim. Spilling over. A decade ago, there were only a handful of wine bars. Now? They're all over town. And we're here to happily drink them up. What's more, these slick haunts are also some of the best spots in Sydney to grab a nice dinner with friends.  It makes no difference whether you're a novice or an expert, fancy something natural or classic, old world or new, or whether you want to spend moderately or extravagantly, Time Out Sydney's writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have curated this list for every palate, at every price point. Bottoms up. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Can't get enough of that boozy stuff? Check out the absolute best bars in Sydney here.

From specialty Sichuan spots to hot Cantonese kitchens, Sydney has some seriously great Chinese restaurants. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this curated and up-to-date list. So whether you want to go all out and explore regional cuisines, sit down for yum cha, grab some takeaway barbecue duck or hand-thrown noodles, you'll find your spot here. These are the best Chinese restaurants Sydney has to offer – we're hungry just thinking about them. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  Recommended: Here are the tastiest cheap eats in Sydney right now Check out the best Italian joints in Sydney town

Home to excellent surf, Sydney’s longest continuous stretch of beach, pumping live music venues, lively cafés and stunning coastal walks, Cronulla is the pearl in the Shire’s salty crown. Plus, with its proximity to the Royal National Park, it’s a ripping place to base yourself for a few days (or weeks). The locals here are laid-back, friendly and proud of their beautiful coastal suburb, and after one visit here, you’ll soon see why. Over the past decade, the dining scene in Cronulla has been turned up a notch, with restaurants popping up that rival those found in the big smoke. Time Out Sydney's food writers, including one who calls Cronulla home, has rounded up the best places to eat and drink. Hit the surf then hit up one of these spots. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: Six ways for nature-lovers to get the best out of the Sutherland Shire. These are the best restaurants in Manly. Check out our guide to the best beaches in Sydney here.

The five days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve are a strange, awkward, in-between time for everyone. Most places have closed shop for the summer, while others have new holiday hours that are tricky to wrap your head around. At this time of year, Sydney tends to feel more empty than usual as most locals make a mass exodus for elsewhere, but if you plan on sticking around and having a lovely summer holiday in a whole city that you're likely to get (probably, mostly) to yourself, we have put together a list for you of all the coolest things for you to do in town between Christmas Day and NYE. You're welcome.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: Want more culture? Check out our guide to the best art exhibitions and theatre and musicals on in Sydney this month. 

Contrary to contemporary yarns, there are still pubs and bars that host live music in Sydney. Many of them have successfully lashed back at the encroaching frontline of pokie machines.  We're all for it. So Time Out Sydney's writers – including pub-frother and Editor Alice Ellis, and resident booze-lover and Editor Avril Treasure, have rounded up a list of our fave bars and pubs that host live bands. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Hate the ding-ding of pokie machines? Here's a list of Sydney pubs without pokies. More into dancing to a DJ? Check our guide to the best clubs in Sydney.

Parramatta's CBD is now one of the biggest commercial hubs outside of the Sydney CBD. Along with this hustle and bustle has emerged a lively restaurant scene with cuisines from across the globe. So whether Parramatta is a detour, or your main destination, the buzzing suburb's excellent restaurants will have you stumped for choice. We've rounded up our favourites, to make the decision easier for you. Get cracking. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for Indian, specifically? Here's our guide to the best Indian restaurants in Parramatta and Harris Park.  Or check out our guide to the very best restaurants across Sydney.

Showbags, woodchopping contests, baby animals, roller coasters, stunt cars, showbags, fruit and veg displays, cake decorating comps, fireworks... did we mention showbags? Yep, the Sydney Royal Easter Show is back at Sydney Showground from April 11-22 2025 with all the old-time favourites – and plenty of new offerings as well. Whether it’s your first time or a long-standing family tradition, it’s time to book those tickets. Here's our essential guide to the Sydney Royal Easter Show 2025 Did you know that the Show dates back to 1823? Hosted by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS), it’s been celebrating the hard work of our NSW farmers and producers and contributing to the RAS and its agricultural initiatives ever since. Plus, it gives us city folk a chance to see farmyard animals and fresh produce up close and personal.  All the big crowd-pullers will be back for 2025. Make sure you line up early to see the baby animals before the rest of the crowd does, catch those cowboys at the rodeo, and marvel at world-class showjumping. A new attraction this year: Jamison Station, a 2.5-acre working farm. We’re talking sheep shearing, tractor rides and panning for gold. See more than 400 different animal breeds in the livestock competitions, from dairy and beef cattle to sheep, goats and even alpacas.  There’s also the kids’ rides section – and the option to take the action up a notch over on the big-kids rides. The Sky Flyer XXL will take you to dizzying heights, and there’s a bra

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. The folks of Redfern are spoilt. Spoilt, that is, for choice when it comes to eating out with its slew of cafés, restaurants and bars at their doorstep. And now, they have a shiny new dining and retail precinct Wunderlich Lane on the Redfern/Surry Hills border that’s home to the gorgeous Greek tavern Olympus (from the folks behind The Apollo), chic boutique hotel The Eve, the slick and playful Bar Julius, and our hangout for today, Island Radio. It’s Sunday, 12.30pm, and Island Radio is buzzing. Think two kitchens under one roof: a casual, wallet-friendly noodle bar for walk-ins who can feast on things like prawn and pork wonton laksa, and raw kingfish skewers, plus a swish eating house where booking ahead is not just a suggestion – it’s mandatory, going by how crowded it is when we visit. As we’re shown to our seats, an expanse of fibreglass full moon pendant lights grab our attention. Eye-catching yet ethereal, they set the tone. Every little detail is considered We’re talking bright orange tiles adorning the bar, a funky playlist, and disco lights in the toilets because – why not? This kind of eclectic-meets-elevated aesthetic is what we’ve come to expect from the crew at House Made Hospitality, the same team behind the likes of Grana, Apollonia, Martinez

Fresh-out-of-the-oven sourdough. Insta-worthy matcha lattes. Custard-oozing cruffins. Bakery lovers on the Northern Beaches, rejoice. Frenchs Fair in – you guessed it – Frenchs Forest is a brand-new bakery and café that’s bringing a bit of fine dining flair to baked goods.  Chef Max Bean, formerly of Est., Calla and The Bridge Room, has swapped silverware for sourdough, teaming up with his hospitality wife Vicki (both Roseville locals) to create this carb-lover’s paradise. Their menu is a good mix of over-the-counter sweet and savoury offerings and café classics. Think iced strawberry matcha lattes made with premium Uji matcha, or raspberry-and-custard cruffins. Prefer to munch through lunch with family or friends? Try the peach, honey and lemon thyme toast with whipped ricotta on house-baked sourdough, or the loaded Wagyu pastrami Reuben sandwich. Our pick would be the baker's brunch, featuring house-made pickles, hash brown bites, shaved leg ham, piccalilli chutney, hot honey ricotta, soft boiled egg and fresh bread.  The couple's commitment to sourcing produce locally shows: the butter is from CopperTree Farms, the stone-milled flour from Wholegrain Milling Co. and the coffee from Reuben Hills.   Max and Vicki’s combined expertise, honed from working in some of Sydney’s top-notch kitchens like Bar Topa and Palings, ensures that Frenchs Fair offers delicious baked goods in a stylish-yet-casual setting. It’s kid- and dog-friendly, with indoor-outdoor seating – perfect for a

Gymea’s got a new kid on an old block. We’re talking about the recently opened Hazel Kitchen & Bar found within the Hazelhurst Arts Centre. Its backstory? The property originally belonged to Ben and Hazel Broadhurst, who gifted it to the community in the ’90s to create a vibrant arts hub. Today, Hazel Kitchen & Bar, named after its benefactors, celebrates their legacy with great food and creative vibes. Chef Nils Herold serves up fresh, seasonal dishes inspired by the beautiful Hazelhurst gardens – think vibrant, local produce transformed into seriously delicious plates. With training from his uncle’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Clos St Dennis in Belgium, he’s got the chops to make every bite impressive. Drinks? Sorted. Sommelier Michael Hannken (yep, he’s worked at Quay and Bennelong) has handpicked a killer wine list packed with organic and sustainable drops from small, family-run wineries. For cocktail fans, bar manager Khye Saunder reimagines the classics with house-made liquors and drinks that are guaranteed to delight. Owners James Lancaster and Zoe Wall (the duo behind Audley Dance Hall Café) want Hazel to be a welcoming space, offering good times and great flavours. With Insta-worthy mid-century interiors (that stunning Breccia Rose marble bar is calling out to us), and gorgeous gardens, all you need to decide is whether to sit at the bar, grab a table, or chill on the deck with views of lush surroundings. What’s more, you can even say ‘I do’ here – yes, the venu

If you're into spicy curries, cool cocktails and late-night vibes, Sydney's newest hotspot Kasippu is calling your name. House of Pocket, the group behind Stitch Bar and YCK Laneways, has opened its doors to a Sri Lankan-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar that blends spice with spirit in a beautiful heritage building in the CBD. So, what’s behind the name? In Sri Lanka, Kasippu is moonshine that’s brewed illicitly in homes. The restaurant borrows the concept of making as much as it can in-house, from the food to the syrups and herbal extracts. At the helm is chef Amila Hemachandra, who recently spearheaded a team trip to Sri Lanka. From street eats to high-end plates, the team ate their way through everything to get to the heart of the island nation’s food and culture, before nutting out the concept of their new venture, Kasippu.  Front and centre is the wadiya or curry house, with dishes like sambol, devilled chicken and tempered potatoes on the menu, as well as the pepper beef stew, which is House of Pocket CEO Karl Schlothauer’s go-to order. Tucked behind the restaurant area is the bar with a drinks menu that’s a love letter to the island nation. Expect inventive twists on classic cocktails. How about a Siyambala Julep that features tamarind syrup and curry leaves? Kasippu’s menu is available all night long, making it the perfect place for kicking back with nibbles and drinks once their live entertainment starts. Yes, karaoke nights, local bands and DJs will soon be part

There’s a fresh new vibe on the Shire’s waterfront, and it’s called Pippis Cronulla. Sitting pretty on the newly renovated Calico Marina, this family-friendly waterfront venue is the brainchild of Adam Choker, the hospitality guy behind BarLume and Flower Child cafés.  Pippis Cronulla is a family affair, from the crowd it attracts to the team behind it. Adam got his brother Ramzey Choker, co-founder of The Grounds of Alexandria and the recently opened, The Grounds Coffee Factory, to help bring his vision of a relaxed waterfront dining hub to life. He also roped in his sister Caroline Choker and her husband Vince Alafaci of design studio Acme & Co to create a space that’s inviting yet stylish. Think modern coastal vibes paired with family-friendly touches like a play area for the little ones and a BYO policy that makes it wallet-friendly (they don’t sell booze, so bring along a chilled bottle or two of your fave bubbles or rosé).  Being a Cronulla resident meant that Adam wanted to give his community a space where locals could unwind with delicious food by the water. With this in mind, head chef Carlo Della Sala has crafted a menu that marries modern Australian cuisine with his Italian heritage. The Mediterranean-inspired fare features acai bowls and shakshuka for brekkie, while kingfish ceviche, wood-fired pizzas and, yes, pippis are on offer for lunch and dinner.  Pippis Cronulla joins a wave of great new eateries that have opened in The Shire, including Pino's Vino e Cucina

Tucked away in Surry Hills, Le Salle Dining by Bar Chaplin is the kind of place you’ll want to frequent with your foodie friends. Run by the dynamic duo of chef Patrick Dang – who has more than 30 years of culinary experience under his belt with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Luke Mangan – and co-owner and partner Ederlyn Oloresisimo, who has worked at both Vue de Monde and Firedoor, Le Salle Dining offers an exclusive, reservation-only experience with just 10-14 seats each night. Think less “restaurant” and more of a cosy dinner party – and a really special one at that. Le salle means ‘the room’ in French, and that’s exactly the vibe chef Dang wants to create. During Covid lockdowns, he enjoyed cooking for friends at home, and now he’s inviting Sydneysiders into this neighbourhood venue with a promise of good food, good wine and good vibes. The menu? Ever-changing, always seasonal and inspired by the flavour profiles of wines from around the world. One night it might be crystal crab with smoked oyster ice cream (yep, you read that right), and the next, venison with parsnip and coffee. You can opt for a four-course menu or five courses if you’re feeling particularly peckish – and you can even customise the dining experience. Le Salle Dining promises an intimate, modern European meal with old-world charm. Leave your dining room and come check this one out instead. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity

Sydneysiders on the Northern Beaches, rejoice! If you’ve been missing the OG Boathouse café in Palm Beach, you’ll be stoked to know that The Boathouse Palm Beach reopened on November 8, bringing its signature coastal charm back to the area. While it’s no longer in its former waterfront location, it has found a beaut new home in a 1920s beach shack at 1 Beach Road, which was previously a homewares-only store. After six months of renovations, the much-loved spot has been transformed into a refreshed café and homewares destination, blending its rich history with a modern, beachy vibe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Boathouse Palm Beach (@theboathousepalmbeach) While the space now boasts a new roof, balcony, kitchen and bar, it retains its laid-back style. The relaxed interiors feature a 100-seater café serving breakfast and lunch to locals, with the menu crafted by The Boathouse Group’s head of culinary, Mark La Brooy. What’s for brekkie? Try the mango bircher with macadamia crunch; corn fritters with avocado salsa; or the crab scramble with sriracha and peanut crunch. The coffee is Single O and there’s a selection of smoothies to cool you down while you enjoy the ocean breeze on the balcony. When lunchtime rolls around, dive into coastal classics like kingfish tostadas; potato scallops with whipped roe; or stuffed zucchini flowers. In the mood for something heartier? Try their fish and chips; Wagyu beef burger; crab toast and more. An

Mark your calendars: celebrated chef Dan Hunter of Brae – the award-winning restaurant in regional Victoria – is teaming up with Danielle Alvarez for an exclusive four-night dining residency under the white sails this summer. Alvarez is the culinary director of the Sydney Opera House, a cookbook author (her Recipes for a Lifetime of Beautiful Cooking is one of our all-time faves), and the former head chef of dreamy Paddington diner, Fred’s. Excited? We are too. Called ‘Harvest of Purpose,’ the one-off event will take place in the stunning Yallamundi Rooms of the Sydney Opera House from January, 17-20 2025. If you’ve ever dreamt about dining at Brae, this is pretty damn close. Maybe even better. This dynamic duo is teaming up to showcase a six-course menu inspired by the chefs’ shared philosophy of sustainability and purpose-driven cuisine in Australia’s most iconic venue. Each dish will highlight local, ethically sourced, seasonal produce that celebrates the farmers, growers and landscapes that define our region. Set against the grid-worthy backdrop of Sydney Harbour, diners can enjoy a six-course meal for $450 per person, with the option to add organic, sustainably produced wine pairings by Handpicked Wines for $265 per person, or non-alcoholic pairings for $195 per person. Each guest will also receive a personalised gift, reflecting the event's ethos of sustainability and connection to the land. Renowned stylist Fiona Rae will transform the Yallamundi Rooms to reflect the n

Slick Japanese restaurant Oribu in Parramatta’s Heritage Precinct has not only scored itself three new head chefs – Jay Lee, Jaybert Teves and Bryan Paul Nery – but an all-new menu – Natsu no Yume  – that truly is a ‘summer’s dream’.  Chef Jaybert Teves (ex-Sokyo) is the sashimi maestro, chef Jay Lee (ex-Aria) brings fine-dining finesse, and chef Bryan Paul Nery spices things up with Southeast Asian vibes. In case you’re wondering, Oribu gets its name from the majestic olive tree front and centre of the indoor/outdoor restaurant, located on Church Street. Our hot tip? If you’re indulging in one of their set menus, go on a very empty stomach or wear stretchy pants. You have two options: the Oribu Signature Journey, and the more decadent Oribu Japanese Culinary Artistry, both of which take the greatest hits from the à la carte menu. The drinks menu features bold cocktails, like the punchy Wasabi Margin made with tequila, Cointreau, yuzu, fresh wasabi and cucumber. Back to the food. The Signature Journey tasting menu starts off with royal Miyagi oysters, mini sashimi, hiramasa kingfish carpaccio, ceviche, a crisp rice quartet, lotus chips and popcorn prawns – and that’s only the entreés. Every dish is a masterclass in plating and (almost) too pretty to eat. The more decadent Oribu Japanese Culinary Artistry takes things up a notch – think Oscietra black caviar on the oysters, and a choice between Hida A5 Wagyu or lobster tail for mains.  Prefer to mix and match? Oribu’s à la car

A while ago we told you about chef Chase Kojima and the plans he was hatching in Bankstown. Now, we can tell you that those plans have come to fruition with the opening of Tokyo Samba. Yes, the name says it all – it’s a Japanese-Brazilian restaurant that dares to be different. How so? Tokyo Samba’s food menu is halal-certified; its drinks menu is non-alcoholic. With a focus on shared plates, the menu blends the precision of Japanese techniques with the vibrant flavours of Brazil and Peru. At the heart of the kitchen is the Josper oven and grill, where premium cuts of meat and fish are seared to deliver bold, smoky flavours. Highlights include miso glacier 51 toothfish, lobster with kombu butter, and yakitori spatchcock. And because this is a Chase Kojima venue, you can expect top-notch sashimi and sushi, too. The alcohol-free drinks’ menu is curated to cater to the local community, offering non-alcoholic wines and mocktails that pair perfectly with the food on offer. Famed for his work at Sokyo at The Star and Nobu in The Bahamas, chef Kojima’s culinary résumé has spanned across restaurants in Las Vegas, Dubai and London. He’s joined by a stellar team, including head sushi chef Yul Kim (Sushi E and Bar Nine Omakase), sous chef Richard Ignatius Wijaya (Bennelong and Choji Yakiniku), and junior sous chef Kuan-Ting Lee (Attica and Oncore by Clare Smyth). With its inventive take and inclusive approach, Tokyo Samba promises a unique dining experience in the heart of Bankstown. St

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. When people from South West Sydney crave “a succulent Chinese meal” (IYKYK!), they head to Beverly Hills and take their pick from the many Cantonese places dotting both sides of busy King Georges Road. It’s 6pm on a Sunday and we’re shown to our reserved table at Yummy Seafood Chinese Restaurant. But not before we take a peek at tank upon tank of lobsters, crabs, fish and abalone that might soon be dinner. Right from the get-go you realise that it’s a local favourite, with Chinese families soon filling up the spacious restaurant. Lazy Susans laden with crab in garlic butter, steamed whole fish, oodles of noodles and stir-fried Asian greens are spinning around in anticipation. The jasmine tea, piping hot and fragrant, is served with complimentary salted peanuts that we nibble on while we peruse the menus. Yes, plural. There’s a seasonal menu with chef suggestions ranging from pigeon to Peking duck, the regular menu with all your old-school Chinese favourites, and, we find out later, a separate Cantonese-only menu with offal, dried seafood and fermented foods. Chopsticks at the ready, we dig into the first dish: pipis in XO sauce, which can be ordered by weight. Our waiter suggests we order a serve of fried noodles to go with it and we agree. A Hong Kong creati

Sydney’s brand-new $5.3 billion Western Sydney International (WSI) Airport is set for take-off in late 2026, promising a 24/7, curfew-free travel hub in Badgerys Creek, 41 kilometres west of the CBD. A recent article in the Sydney Morning Herald revealed that while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed it will stay curfew-free, calls are growing for its regulatory status to be revised so it can attract more international airlines. Speaking at the Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue’s airport city summit, Albanese reaffirmed WSI’s 24/7 status but dodged questions about whether the government would ease restrictions on international flights. Intrigued? We got a sneak peek at the huge new airport. Photograph: Supplied | Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI) Unlike the current Sydney Airport in Mascot, which is bound by a curfew stopping flights from 11pm to 6am to minimise noise pollution, WSI has pre-approval to operate around the clock. However, despite its ambitious plans to become a major international hub, it faces a big hurdle – its designation as a primary gateway airport. Under bilateral flight agreements, foreign airlines that have already hit their cap on Sydney flights won’t be able to land at WSI. Qatar Airways is one of the international carriers caught up in these rules. Secondary airports like Darwin and Adelaide aren’t bound by these laws, leading industry leaders to call for an urgent review of the rules. WSI is expected to hand

Packed like a can of sardines. If you’ve ever travelled on the Sydney Metro during morning peak hour, you’re probably nodding in agreement. Sydneysiders have well and truly embraced the extension of the metro, but with popularity comes potential crowding, especially during the morning rush. And where does it get busiest? The Sydney Morning Herald has revealed that the M1 line gets particularly jam-packed at Crows Nest, which is the morning hot spot for city-bound commuters. Metro trains at Crows Nest Station depart at 82 per cent capacity during the 8 to 9am rush, and it’s projected to get more crowded, with ongoing residential and office developments in the area. Crows Nest's packed factor is closely followed by Chatswood (which depart at 77 per cent capacity), Victoria Cross in North Sydney (at 76 per cent capacity), and North Ryde (at 69 per cent capacity). So, where is everyone going? New data reveals that Martin Place Station recorded an average of 17,000 taps between 6.30am and 10am on weekdays in February – well above the 2024 forecast of 15,600. Gadigal Station (Town Hall) also surpassed projections, hitting 9,700 average taps in February, up from a forecast of 7,500. To give you a sense of scale, full capacity on these driverless metro trains is 1,152 passengers – that’s all 378 seats taken plus standing passengers. Morning peaks tend to be busier than evenings, with school and office start times overlapping, while the trip home tends to be more spread out because p

Us Sydneysiders love the great outdoors: fresh air, Insta-ready views and those exercise-induced happy hormones. And, going by the recent data revealed by AllTrails, Easter is fast becoming the most popular time for Aussies to take a hike. In fact, the Easter long weekend last year was the biggest hiking weekend of the year. With the weather forecast for the long weekend looking dreamy, all signs point to another Easter weekend packed with bushwalks, coastal treks and mountain climbs.  Wondering why? Perhaps it’s because the weather in autumn is not too hot, not too cold – it’s just right (yes, we’re channelling Goldilocks). Maybe it’s because the kids are on school holidays. Or perhaps, in a post-Covid world, we’re embracing the outdoors more than ever. AllTrails certainly noticed – the site recorded a 57 per cent increase in Aussie users last year, along with a 50 per cent rise in trail listings nationwide. Whether you're planning a scenic family stroll or a solo bushwalk, here’s a list of  must-do NSW hikes to do. Bonus? It's the perfect way to earn more of those Easter eggs and hot cross buns. Speaking of which, you can even take the Easter egg hunting outdoors and make it a family-and-friends day out. Hop to it!  Photograph: Supplied | NSW National Parks and Wildlife These were the most popular NSW hikes for Easter 2024 Grand Canyon Track: Topping the list last year, this 5.8-km loop trail with waterfalls, lush vegetation and dramatic views takes around two hours. Bon

Update Wednesday, April 9: Lady Gaga has just announced her 2025 Australian tour, with concerts in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney this December. Here are all the details. Are the papa-paparazzi right? Is Lady Gaga coming to Australia in 2025? The internet has blown up lately with searches for “Lady Gaga” following the announcement of her international Mayhem Ball tour. But the burning question remains… has Lady Gaga announced tour dates for Australia? Here’s what we know – so far. Ever since Lady Gaga – Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta to her mum and dad – dropped her latest album Mayhem in March, Aussie fans have been hoping the singer-songwriter-actress will be heading Down Under.  Gaga just announced dates for the Mayhem Ball Tour across the US, UK and Europe in the second half of 2025. It kicks off in Las Vegas on July 16 and wraps in Paris on November 20. While her latest single ‘Abracadabra’ is already getting plenty of airtime on FM radio, Little Monsters have been looking for signs that she's coming our way. Gaga hasn’t been to Australia since 2014’s ArtRave: The ArtPop Ball – so we’re more than ready for a return. Appearing on Melbourne radio show The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick, Gaga said with a ‘Poker Face’, “I can’t formally announce anything… but I have such fond memories of being in Australia. I really do want to come back soon.” In the meantime, join the Ticketek waitlist so you’ll be the first to know when official dates are announced for the Australian leg of he

Fan pages are in full ‘Paparazzi’ mode. Reddit threads are in overdrive. Google trends for the term “Lady Gaga” are, to quote Gaga herself, blowin’ up my phone. The burning question? “Has Lady Gaga announced tour dates for  Australia?” Here’s what we know – so far. Ever since Lady Gaga – Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta to her mum and dad – dropped her latest album Mayhem in March, Aussie fans have been hoping the singer-songwriter-actress will be heading Down Under.  Gaga just announced dates for The Mayhem Ball Tour across the US, UK and Europe in the second half of 2025. It kicks off in Las Vegas on July 16 and wraps in Paris on November 20. While her latest single ‘Abracadabra’ is already getting plenty of airtime on FM radio, Little Monsters have been looking for signs that she's coming our way. Gaga hasn’t been to Australia since 2014’s ArtRave: The ArtPop Ball – so we’re more than ready for a return. Appearing on Melbourne radio show The Fox’s Fifi, Fev & Nick, Gaga said with a ‘Poker Face’, “I can’t formally announce anything… but I have such fond memories of being in Australia. I really do want to come back soon.” In the meantime, join the waitlist on Ticketek so that when official dates are announced, you’ll be ready to ‘Just Dance’.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  Want fun now? Here’s what’s on in Sydney this weekend. And these are the b

Did you know that Ashfield Apothecary has a stylish younger sister named Maia? Dressed in royal blue, the tiny but mighty café sits prettily on the corner of Victoria Street in Lewisham, enticing train commuters on their way to the station with the irresistible promise of a caffeine fix.   The mastermind behind Maia Specialty Coffee is Mandeep Bhusal, the same man behind Ashfield Apothecary. When Trainspotting Café shut down two years ago, Bhusal decided to fill the void – and he’s done it with style. Think mid-century chic with a touch of Melbourne cool. The space is cosy with bar seating at a beautiful oak counter, dark panelling and calming blue accents, and yes, it’s also got dog-friendly tables on the footpath outside. The handle-free mugs are also a vibe, crafted by local ceramics artist, Melody Emi Brunton.   Photograph: Phil Worthy   The coffee is the real star, of course. Maia serves Bhusal's very own seasonal blends and single origins under the Ashfield Apothecary name that’s roasted just up the road in Marrickville. Expect beans that are sweet, juicy and bright, sourced from sustainable, high-altitude farms. Depending on what’s on offer, your cup just might have taste notes of shortbread and cacao.  Photograph: Phil Worthy Hungry for more? Try the banh mi-inspired smoked chicken sandwich, or the pastrami number loaded with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. We're also big fans of the loaded mortadella sanga, packed with fresh salad and cheese. But it’s the croque mon

Bet you’ve noticed that finding pasta mains for under $30 in Sydney is a rarity these days. Enter Rosa, a new pasta bar in Pyrmont that’s serving up Italian classics without blowing your budget – yep, not a single dish costs more than 30 dollarydoos. How good is that? RELATED READ: These are the best cheap eats in Sydney right now. Brought to you by the sibling team of Ben and Emily Calabro (the same legends behind Pyrmont fave, Quick Brown Fox), Rosa is all about fuss-free pasta dishes that would get your nonna’s tick of approval. With seasoned chef duo Daniel Grey (formerly at Aalia, The Apollo and Devon Cafe), and Kira Sherry (formerly at Alberto’s Lounge) at the helm, the menu celebrates the simplicity of fresh handmade pasta at an affordable price point.     Photograph: Trent van der Jagt   How about the linguine prawn alla busara with fresh prawns, cherry toms, sugo and a glug of prawn oil? Or the pan-fried gnocchi with roast pumpkin, sage, burnt butter and hazelnuts for crunch? Their snack game is strong, too. Bite into freshly baked focaccia from neighbouring Pioik Bakery, served up with creamy burrata, heirloom tomato and a tarragon and black cherry vinaigrette, or artichokes dressed with lemon rind, garlic, chilli flakes, fennel seeds and oregano. In a rush? They do takeaway, so you can order everything to go (hello, picnics).   Photograph: Trent van der Jagt   As for drinks, Rosa’s got you sorted with a selection of classic apéritifs and digestifs. Try a Limonc

Find yourself on Miller Street in North Sydney and looking for a place to eat and drink? Follow the flashing neon lights and pass under a replica Shinjuku arch – you’ve made it to Miji Bar & Grill, a cool new izakaya joint that’s giving off major Tokyo vibes. Wondering what an izakaya is? Picture a Japanese casual eatery where food and drinks flow freely and friends gather to unwind after work. Think: share-style small plates, a buzzing atmosphere and drinks aplenty. But this one’s a little different.   Photograph: Supplied/Miji Bar & Grill   So, when you step inside Miji, the first thing you'll notice is the self-serve wine bar – after all, it’s all about convenience and choice. Just grab a prepaid card, tap, pay and pour your way through the wines, sakes and drinks on offer. There are more than 24 mixers, plus a garnish station featuring herbs, dried fruits and lollies – so you can make your dream drink. Photograph: Supplied/Miji Bar & Grill Feel like leaving it to the experts? You can try one of their signature cocktails at the bar. We like the sound of the Doraemon, made with apple sake, vodka, blue curaçao, coconut cream, coconut water and marshmallow. As for the food, Miji specialises in grilled seafood. Expect dishes like king crab, seafood rice, rainbow trout and kingfish crudo. Head chef Jacob Lee’s focus is on taking classic Japanese dishes and giving them a fresh twist. Having worked in Michelin-starred kitchens in New York and Seoul, he aims for inventive dish

Oh là là! Martin Place just got a whole lot more magnifique with the arrival of Petit Loulou, perched right above the Metro. And, going by the steady stream of office-goers and tourists lining up, it’s proving to be just as popular as its big sister Loulou over the Bridge in Milsons Point.  What’s on offer? How about all the French favourites. Utterly buttery croissants, perfect little madeleines with their signature humps, generously filled Paris-Brest, crusty sourdough baguettes, escargots (the pastry kind, not the snail kind) studded with plump sultanas and loads more almost-too-pretty-to-eat pastries. Our tip? If you’re torn between the velvety-rich chocolate eventail and the zingy lemon raspberry éclair, get both.    Photograph: Trent van der Jagt   Brendon Woodward, Loulou head baker said, “We wanted to offer Sydney locals an authentic French experience, whether they’re returning guests or visiting us for the first time. Our ethos is to share the joy of traditional French baking with the city.” Feeling savoury? Might we suggest the yummo sausage rolls, a rotisserie chicken baguette, or a Niçoise salad. And, yes, there’s coffee. Do as the French do and take a break to sit down and savour your lunch in the outdoor seating area. Photograph: Trent van der Jagt But that’s not all: the 130-seat Loulou Bistro and Bar will soon open right next door to the bakery in Martin Place (yes, just like Loulou in Milsons Point). Oozing a quintessential Parisian vibe, it’s all set to

Housed in a heritage-listed corner terrace that’s painted a Tuscan-sun yellow on Crown Street, Pan Divino is turning on the Italian charm in Surry Hills. Serving Italian fare with just a hint of Brazilian flavour, this 75-seater is already causing a stir among the locals. Good thing, then, that Pan Divino has three different seating areas. Start at the bar where sommelier Royston Lau (ex-Monster in Canberra) has curated a killer wine list featuring more than 50 bottles from Italy and beyond, and where you can enjoy a cheeky afternoon aperitivo. Or settle in for a leisurely lunch or dinner in the main dining area where crisp white tablecloths, bentwood chairs and art-lined walls set the mood. But, if you ask us, we’re heading straight for the courtyard crudo bar to enjoy the fresh seafood. And, yes, there’s even a DJ to keep the good times rolling. Photograph: Supplied/Pan Divino At the helm is executive chef Stefano Mondonico, (ex-Gowings) who’s bringing serious cred to the kitchen. Joining him is head chef Adam Bryce (ex-Doyles and North Bondi Fish) and restaurant manager Gregoire Gamand (ex-Paddo Inn and North Bondi Fish). Inspired by his Brazilian roots, chef Mondonico’s menu centres around flame, smoke and salt – with a strong predilection towards seafood. Take the salted blue-eye trevalla, for instance. It’s salt-cured in-house for a week, then dry-aged for another, and is a nod to the fishing adventures Mondonico shared with his dad growing up in Brazil. Photograph:

Ping. Ping. Ping. That’s the sound of Sydney's Boxing Day sales as digital payments ring out across Aussie shopping centres – with hardly a note in sight. Tyro’s latest Big Time Business Report, which surveyed more than 500 small and medium enterprises (SMEs), revealed that 55 per cent of businesses are considering the idea of going cashless in 2025, partly to cut admin costs. Hospitality businesses like restaurants and bars, as well as retail businesses, are even more likely to go cashless than other industries. And 16 per cent of Australian businesses have already gone fully cashless in 2024, with hospo and retail leading the charge. “With almost 80% of payments in Australia made by card, and the cost benefit that comes with streamlining payment operations, it’s not surprising that more businesses are interested in going cashless,” says Tyro CEO, Jon Davey. Rising costs are putting the squeeze on profit margins – 48 per cent of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) surveyed for the report said they have hiked their prices in the last year to keep up with climbing supply costs. Some have absorbed the financial strain or switched suppliers to avoid passing the pain onto customers. As the saying goes, time is money. Financial admin is a big time suck for business owners who know they need to modernise how they do business to stay competitive.  RECOMMENDED: These are the best cheap eats in Sydney. No surprises here: consumers are feeling the pinch, too. They are getting increasing

Parramatta is packed with IT professionals, Lakemba has loads of taxi drivers, Epping is where accountants assemble, Mosman has a lot of legal eagles, Castle Hill is home to school principals, Bondi Beach is a hub for models – and plastic surgeons. Stereotyping, much? Not exactly. We’re referencing "occupation by suburb" statistics from the latest Census, as recently broken down by the SMH. The Sydney workforce has now climbed to almost three million people across its 562 suburbs. The most common job by sheer volume is the sales assistant – we have 89,000 of them in Greater Sydney, with Blacktown alone home to 932 of them. The second most popular occupation is general clerks (49,000) and, again, Blacktown is where a huge portion of them live. Coming in third is accountants (44,000), a big portion of whom reside in Epping.  It won't come as a surprise that suburbs with water views – e.g. Vaucluse, Mosman, Hunters Hill – have more CEOs than anywhere else. Mosman has 471 lawyers and a dozen judges among their working elite. It's also a hot spot for management consultants, HR managers and financial advisors. Lawyers also dwell across inner Sydney, with a strong presence in other waterside areas like Woolloomooloo and McMahons Point. Newtown and Stanmore also have a smattering of legal professionals due to the gentrification of these once-working class suburbs.  In less obvious news, medical professionals like to settle down in Strathfield; it's home to big portions of GPs, cardi